School of Music
Associate Dean for Graduate Studies: Timothy R. McKinney
Accreditation
The School of Music graduate programs are accredited by the National Association of Schools of Music.
Graduate Degrees in Music
Graduate programs in music at Baylor University are designed to bring students to the highest levels of performance and scholarship of which they are capable. The graduate faculty of the School of Music is comprised of individuals who have distinguished themselves in their chosen disciplines and who maintain active performance, research, and other professional interests. Graduates from Baylor’s School of Music hold positions in orchestras, opera companies, churches, universities and colleges, and conservatories, and other venues throughout the world. Assistantships are available in many performance and academic areas to enable students of superior ability to pursue a quality education in music at Baylor.
Music (MUS)
This course is an in-depth study of modern jazz improvisational techniques. May be repeated for credit.
Advanced Opera Workshop is an intensive class for advanced singers who aspire to careers in Opera and/or Musical Theatre. In this class students receive intensive one-on-one instruction on their "audition aria package." An accompanist is assigned for the course and students coach each aria or piece of musical theatre to polish it for professional auditions. Students will also have the opportunity to obtain one-on-one help with their professional credentials, taxes as artists and other items as needed. Since one-on-one instruction is the key to the success of this class the number of students enrolled must be limited. Therefore, undergraduates who wish to take this class must receive a nomination from their Vocal Instructor prior to asking for permission from the instructor of the course. Repeatable for credit.
Development of process-based skill sets for learning to sing and perform recitative, primarily in operas by Handel, Mozart, and bel canto composers. Topics include comparing recitativo secco and recitativo accompagnato and the practical performance techniques involved, applying concepts of lyric diction to the learning process, and mastering finer points such as style, pacing, appoggiature, word play, optional rests, and character development.
Literature study, composition, and performance of fixed and interactive electroacoustic music.
Study of problems in orchestration beyond the general topics addressed in MUS 3306.
This course is an in-depth study of the harmonic and melodic basis of jazz, including the use of modes and extensions in jazz improvisation and composition, and reharmonization and analysis of performers' improvised solos. Students will develop skills in ear training and practical jazz music.
For prospective organ teachers: methods and materials; church and concert repertoire.
Study of techniques and resources for organ playing in the context of a worship service.
Training class for singers and choral-conducting students in stage techniques.
Acting for Singers I is a beginning acting course for the stage specifically designed to provide appropriate training in acting for young singers who aspire to stage careers in Opera and/or Musical Theatre. The course includes instruction in basic stage deportment for recitals and auditions and is also appropriate for students who plan to teach young vocalists in the future, particularly those called upon to teach Opera Workshop or direct an Opera Scenes Program at the University level and/or direct a Musical Production at the high-school level.
Acting for Singers II is the second of two courses designed to provide appropriate training in acting for young singers who aspire to stage careers in Opera and/or Musical Theatre. This course will focus on the individual student rather than the larger group. Students will deal with problems specific to opera and musical theatre including acting within the time-frame of the composer, necessity of singing out to the audience at all times and connection with the conductor during performances. This course is appropriate for aspiring young artists as well as prospective teachers in the fields of vocal and choral music. Prior to taking this course a student should have taken Acting for Singers I or an equivalent.
This course is designed to address music wellness issues and help musicians adopt a healthy approach to performance that will allow them to perform at their best. Regular performance practice will be integrated with relaxation techniques such as stretching, deep breathing, imagery, and progressive relaxation. Practice and memorization techniques to assist with performance preparation will also be covered.
Development of fundamental skills music-based entrepreneurship, and creative thinking beyond the practice room as preparation for 21st-century careers in music.
Introduction to advanced conducting techniques. Focus will be on strengthening skills from undergraduate conducting courses and building strategies for score preparation, knowledge, and facility.
Advanced study of instrumental conducting techniques and related preparation and score study, specifically applied to orchestral ensembles.
Advanced study of choral conducting techniques and related preparation and score study, specifically applied to choral ensembles.
Advanced study of instrumental conducting techniques and related preparation and score study, specifically applied to bands and wind ensembles.
The study of congregational music used in corporate worship. The course includes the historical development of congregational song and the analysis of its literary, scriptural, musical, and theological content.
Investigation of specialized topics in music analysis, with focus on a particular analytical approach or repertoire.
Principles of modal and harmonic counterpoint.
A continuation of MUS 4304. Advanced work in specialized areas of counterpoint.
Continuation of MUS 4307. Includes a recital of original works.
Role Preparation will cover the research into the genesis of a specific opera as well as the music of a role from that opera. Students will have the opportunity to learn operatic roles that they, and their applied voice teacher, feel are appropriate for their voices and abilities. Students will then receive musical and dramatic coaching on their roles and will present semi-staged or concert versions of their roles at the end of the semester. May be repeated once for credit.
This seminar focuses on interpreting and understanding primary sources, both written and musical (scores), related to the various styles and approaches to the creation of American music.
A survey of orchestral literature.
Literature of keyboard instruments from early sources to the early nineteenth century.
Literature of keyboard instruments from the mid-nineteenth century to the present.
This course examines opera from its origins in the late sixteenth century to the present. Students will learn about opera's musical and literary conventions, its development, and how operas reflect the musical and cultural values of their areas. The scores to be studied are coordinated with recorded and audio/visual examples, as well as with relevant readings from books and periodicals. Class discussion, presentations, essays, listening tests, and a final project are part of the course.
Folk and tribal music in the United States. Specific topics include: music of native Americans, oral tradition music of European immigrants, oral tradition music created in America, African and African-American music, the Latin American musical influence, and ethnomusicology as a discipline of study. Current and historical topics will be included. Students will participate in field research projects.
Music for solo voice from its beginnings to the present.
Continuation of MUS 4327.
Literature for wind ensemble and band from early sources to the present.
Solo and chamber music and pedagogy for percussion instruments.
Chamber music for string instruments.
Solo and chamber music literature and pedagogy for woodwind instruments.
Solo and chamber music and pedagogy for brass instruments.
Secular and religious choral music representing style periods from the late Renaissance to the present.
Important historical, cultural, musical and production moments in the century-long narrative of the American musical theatre. Specific topics may vary from year to year. The course is designed for upper-level music majors; theatre majors and other students should consult with instructors before enrolling.
The organ and its literature from the earliest manuscripts and tablatures through 1750.
The organ and its literature from 1750 to the present.
This course introduces both music majors and non-music majors to the often overlooked contributions of creative Americans to the field of "classical" music from the beginning of the United States' existence to the present time.
An exploration of music education practices in international school settings, including curricular comparisons, student populations, and program configurations. Attention will be given to any specialized procedures required for those interested in teaching in international environments post-graduation. This course may be repeated once.
Introduction to analytical methods, ethnography, and fieldwork techniques in ethnomusicology in order to equip students with practical tools to conduct ethnographical research and fieldwork.
Analysis of specific African musical traditions within their cultural, geographical, historical, and social contexts as points of departure for analyzing and understanding broader patterns and dynamics of human activity.
Analysis of specific Asian musical traditions within their cultural, geographical, historical, and social contexts as points of departure for analyzing and understanding broader patterns and dynamics of human activity.
Analysis of specific European musical traditions within their cultural, geographical, historical, and social contexts as points of departure for analyzing and understanding broader patterns and dynamics of human activity.
Analysis of specific Latin American musical traditions within their cultural, geographical, historical, and social contexts as points of departure for analyzing and understanding broader patterns and dynamics of human activity.
Analysis of specific Texas musical traditions within their cultural, historical, and social contexts as points of departure for analyzing broader patterns and dynamics of human activity reinforcing identity.
Academic approach to a variety of performance practice techniques used in traditional and urban musical genres around the world.
A study of the music in worship from biblical times to the present. Includes strengthening worship leadership and planning skills and thereby connecting the principles and practice of music making in worship to the broader life of the Church in a local context.
A survey of vocal music in the Christian church, with particular emphasis upon the literary, scriptural, theological, musical, historical, and performance background of congregational song, and an introduction to selected standard sacred choral literature.
A survey of the principles involved in organizing and implementing a comprehensive music ministry, including budgeting, programming, and multiple staff relationships. An introduction to pastoral skills including visioning, hospital visitation, and conflict management.
An in-depth study of a narrowly circumscribed topic, such as a composer or genre. This course provides the opportunity to utilize special skills and knowledge of outstanding resident or visiting faculty. May be repeated for credit.
A continuation of MUS 4203. At least one substantial creative project will be completed. Course may be repeated for credit.
An intensive workshop on keyboard methods and materials.
This course is oriented to the development and practical application of the student's critical thinking process through lectures and presentations related to the academic field in music.
A remedial course for incoming graduate students who show multiple deficiencies on the Music History diagnostic exam. All major periods will be covered, but the course will focus on the specific needs of the students enrolled. Students who pass this course may enroll for any graduate level music history course.
Graduate enrollment in Church Music Forum (see MUS 1007, Undergraduate catalog, for description).
Presentation of a recital over and above degree requirements.
Review of part writing, ear training, analysis, and keyboard procedures. Required of graduate students who show deficiencies in theory on the graduate entrance test. Does not count as degree credit.
This course provides graduate music students an opportunity to apply what they have been learning in the classroom to practice in their field of study.
Teaching of children's classes, college classes, adult leisure piano, or private lessons under faculty supervision. Designed to broaden the student's prior teaching experience.
Continuation of MUS 5114.
This course focuses on the development of sight-reading skills for pianists. In-class activities and regular practice assignments help the student identify weaknesses and improve sight-reading abilities. Intended for piano majors.
Writing of a document to accompany the M.M. student's recital. The document will give historical background and analysis of works performed. Document must be completed before recital is given.
Practicum for advanced vocalists in aspects of the singer's art, involving performance and research. May be repeated once for credit.
Advanced individual study of solo vocal repertoire for graduate students preparing for recitals, contests, and auditions. May be repeated for a maximum of six total credit hours, but only four credit hours may be used to satisfy degree requirements.
A comprehensive review of the lyric diction of Italian, German and French. Required of graduate students who demonstrate deficiencies in diction on the graduate entrance examination. Does not count as degree credit.
Special laboratory course for voice students dealing with pronunciation and enunciation as applied to singing in Russian. Additional emphasis is placed on Russian song and aria repertoire.
Graduate recitals consist of repertoire learned while the student is in residence for the degree. Guidelines for approval and presentation of these programs are available from the Graduate Program Director.
Practical application of conducting skills in a full-scale concert.
To fulfill requirements for non-thesis master's students who need to complete final degree requirements other than coursework during their last semester. This may include such things as a comprehensive examination, oral examination, or foreign language requirement. Students are required to be registered during the semester they graduate.
Survey of materials and methods for teaching theory at high school and college levels.
Master's level instruction in composition in twentieth-century idioms through the creation of original pieces, supplemented by analysis and pertinent auxiliary exercises.
Continuation of MUS 5207.
Continuation of MUS 5208.
Advanced study of choral conducting techniques and related preparation and score study, specifically applied to choral ensembles.
Standard opera and concert repertoire for the voice in a two-semester sequence: Semester I--Opera Arias, Italian Canzone, English Songs. Graduate pianists collaborate with fellow student vocalists in master class performances. Critique and coaching by director of collaborative piano.
Continuation of MUS 5252. Semester II: German Lied, French Chanson and Melodie.
A two-semester survey of the standard sonata repertoire for the following instruments: Semester I - strings. Graduate students in piano will collaborate with fellow student instrumentalists in master class performances. Critique and coaching by director of collaborative piano.
Continuation of MUS 5254. Semester II: woodwinds, brasses, and percussion.
Graduate study of instrumental conducting techniques and related preparation and score study, specifically applied to orchestral ensembles.
To provide the student a regularly mentored rehearsal and performing experience.
To provide the student a regularly mentored rehearsal and performing experience.
To provide the student a regularly mentored rehearsal and performing experience.
Private conducting lessons. This course is open only to conducting majors on the M.M. degree and will normally be taken in semesters when the student is not registered for the concentration conducting course or Performance Practicum.
Graduate study of instrumental conducting techniques and related preparation and score study, specifically applied to bands and wind ensembles.
A study of the singing voice including anatomy and physiology of the larynx and the breathing mechanism, phonation, basic acoustics, vocal registers, vocal pathologies, and hygiene, among other related subjects.
Theorists and theoretical tracts from the ancient Greeks to the present day.
A survey and application of analytical approaches and techniques currently employed in the study of music. Required of all graduate students.
Continuation of MUS 5314. Survey of teaching literature for the intermediate and early advanced levels as well as preschool methods and elementary-level curricula for group and private teaching. Graduate students are required to complete a teaching portfolio for certification along with research presentations and additional teaching of music majors in group piano classes.
Continued survey and leveling of intermediate and early advanced students, with additional emphasis on intermediate technique, research in piano pedagogy, and the teaching of adult students in group and private settings. Students teach group and private lessons in the Piano Laboratory Program. Graduate students create a teaching portfolio and also assist in teaching a class piano course for music majors.
History, philosophies, and issues concerning the discipline of ethnomusicology as illustrated in significant selected literature. Advanced research procedures are applied to a selected topic.
Resources, research procedures, and writing techniques for music scholarship.
Selected topics on medieval music in historical and cultural context.
Selected topics on renaissance music in historical and cultural context.
Selected topics on baroque music in historical and cultural context.
Selected topics on music of the long eighteenth century in historical and cultural context.
Selected topics on music of the long nineteenth century in historical and cultural context.
History, philosophies, and issues concerning the discipline of musicology as illustrated in significant selected literature. Advanced research procedures are applied to a selected topic.
Choral literature representing style periods from the late renaissance to the present with emphasis upon large works.
A study of adult choirs, youth choirs, and children’s choirs, ensembles and soloists including rehearsal techniques, spiritual growth, promotion, management, vocal development, materials, and their role in the life of the church and community.
A survey of leadership theory and practice including biblical, historical, and contemporary perspectives.
A study of the practical leadership of music in worship in a variety of contexts, helping to develop the understanding and functional skill set required to design and lead worship effectively.
MUS 5347 Liturgical Traditions A study of the principal historic worship forms of the Eastern and Western churches with emphasis on the continuity of worship practices, the forms and roles of music used in the liturgical orders, and the relationship of the traditions to Christian worship in the present day.
A study of music in worship from biblical times to the present, focusing on the varied perspectives of worship theologians. Includes worship planning and leadership and evaluation of present uses, trends, and emphases.
A survey of resources for faithful and creative planning of corporate Christian worship services, in diverse settings and traditions.
A study of choral literature from various genres and periods of music history that is appropriate for use in Christian worship.
This course provides master’s students with a broad overview of Christian worship practices around the world, including how practitioners from different regions and traditions approach the relationship between worship, music, and culture.
This course explores aspects of the composition, performance, and reception of Christian congregational song around the world.
This course enables church leaders to study church business concepts and basic administrative practices in order to enhance the vision and ministry of the church.
Advanced topics in music theory and analysis. The course may be repeated once for credit..
A seminar on various types of church vocal ensembles, including rehearsal techniques, organization, recruitment, and the use of these groups in enhancing the spiritual life of the church and community.
The research project in piano pedagogy is a terminal requirement for the master’s degree in Piano Pedagogy and Performance. Students enroll in two hours of MUS 5V16 during the final two semesters of their graduate program with either 1 hour credit for 2 semesters or 2 hours’ credit for 1 semester. While enrolled in the course, they conduct research, write their research project, and meet regularly with their supervisor.
Advanced individual research project in the student's major field of interest under the guidance of a member of the Graduate Faculty. Subject of research to be agreed upon by the student and professor and approved by the Graduate Program Director prior to registration. The area of study may not duplicate directly any material pertaining to the thesis, nor may the study substitute for any required course. Course may be repeated, with different topic(s), for a maximum total of twelve hours.
hrs.
To fulfill requirements for non-dissertation doctoral students who need to complete final degree requirements other than coursework during their last semester, such as the final oral exam, or who must register for at least one hour during the semester they graduate.
An introduction to the methodology of scholarly research and writing in church music. A study of bibliography, research technology, and methods of research, specifically as they relate to church music.
A study of the history, philosophy, theology, and practice of congregational song. Major components of this study will include reliance upon primary sources as well as study of key persons.
An in-depth study of selected significant developments, movements, and people in the history of church music. Congregational song, which is covered in Music 6342, will be largely excluded from this course.
An exploration and evaluation of the goals, motivations, responsibilities, and parameters affecting the use of music in congregational settings. Congregational song, which is covered in Music 6342, will be largely excluded from this course.
Provides in-depth study of the history, philosophy, and practice of liturgy and worship, with particular attention to the role of music.
A seminar that addresses various components of music ministry and their history, relationship to traditional pastoral ministry, relationship to current worship practices, and future in the life and work of local congregations.
A study of the repertory, functions, and performing forces of sacred choral music in various genres and periods of musical and church history.
A course that assists church music professionals in gaining information and skills for launching effective careers in teaching or church music ministry. Subjects may include securing a position, understanding higher education, various approaches to research resulting in publication and scholarly presentation, curriculum and course design, teaching effectiveness, and college music administration.
Doctoral level instruction in composition in modern idioms through the creation of original musical works, analysis, and auxiliary exercises. Normally taken for three credit hours; taken for two credit hours when enrolled concurrently in MUS 5170 Graduate Recital or with advisor approval.
Writing of a document to accompany the D.M.A. student’s second recital. The document will give historical background and analysis of works performed. Document must be completed before recital is given.
Applied conducting study for doctoral students, open only to conducting concentrations on the D.M.A Church Music major.
Research, data analysis, writing, and oral/written defense of an approved doctoral dissertation. At least nine hours of MUS 6V99 are required.